Assessing the Impact of Livelihood Diversification Strategies on Household Food Security among Smallholder Farmers in South-Western Nigeria

Subject and purpose of work This study critically examines the role of livelihood diversification strategies in improving household food security among smallholder farmers in South-Western Nigeria. The objective is to explore how rural households adapt to challenges such as climate variability, limited access to resources, and economic instability through diversified income-generating activities. Specifically, the study investigates the impact of activities such as small-scale trade, local manufacturing, agricultural processing, wage labor, and remittances on food security outcomes. Materials and methods The study conducts an extensive literature review of empirical and theoretical research, synthesizing data from studies that focus on agricultural and non-agricultural livelihoods. This approach enables a comprehensive understanding of the different types of diversification strategies used by smallholder farmers and evaluates their effectiveness in stabilizing income and improving food security. The analysis considers various factors, including the socioeconomic and environmental contexts in which these activities are undertaken, to understand the nuances and varying impacts of diversification. Results Key findings reveal that while livelihood diversification can serve as a buffer against income fluctuations, its success largely depends on factors such as resource availability, household capacity, and local infrastructure. Diversification through agricultural means, such as crop rotation or animal husbandry, often stabilizes food production, but may not fully mitigate income risks. Nonagricultural activities, such as trading or manufacturing, can contribute more directly to income stability, although these opportunities are often constrained by limited market access and infrastructure. Remittances provide a crucial safety net for some households, although this source of income is vulnerable to external economic factors. Conclusions The study concludes that targeted livelihood diversification strategies can substantially improve food security in rural areas, especially when they are adapted to local socioeconomic and environmental conditions. The findings underscore the need for policy interventions that support infrastructure development, market access, and training programs to expand viable livelihood options. By aligning theoretical insights with empirical evidence, the study offers actionable recommendations for policy makers to promote sustainable and inclusive food security solutions through diversified income sources for rural communities in South-Western Nigeria.